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Celebrating success for new Shrewsbury over 55’s apartments

05 May 2017

Our £9.4 million development of 69 apartments for the over 55s in Shrewsbury, has marked its official opening with a special celebration event, which brought together new residents with the people that have worked on this exciting project.

Built by Lovell, Withywood, off Ellesmere Road, is the sixth innovative scheme to be developed by the Trust and Choices, under our ShireLiving brand. It’s the first of its type to offer affordably rented apartments in Shropshire (outside of Telford and Wrekin).

Special guest, radio broadcaster Jim Hawkins officially opened the building and joined one of its first residents Thelma Traveller, 89, to cut the cake and start the celebrations. Raise the Roof, The Trust’s own work place choir, provided entertainment.Jim commented; “I’m delighted to open Withywood. Considering this is such a new building it already feels like home.”

Scheme Manager Heather Skelton says: “It has been a great day. Withywood is state-of-the-art and has created much-needed homes to meet the demands of an ageing population. We offer peace of mind and security to those looking for a hassle-free retirement. Our residents have their own smart and stylish apartments and also enjoy high quality facilities like the café and lounges. An onsite team are available 24/7 which gives additional reassurance and helps people to live independently.”

Thelma has recently moved to Shrewsbury from North Wales to be closer to her daughter. Thelma says; “It’s lovely celebrating my new home with my friends and neighbours. Everyone is very kind and helpful, plus I get to keep my independence having my own apartment.”

By 2030 there will be over 100,000 people in Shropshire over the age of 65 and we will also see a rise of 86% in people aged over 85.

Withywood was made possible by £6.7 million investment from the Trust, £2.4 million of grant funding from The Homes and Communities Agency and a Local Authority grant of £340,000.